I79i« •" mathematics. 173: 



those branches of literature on which the knowledge 

 of most of its doctrines are founded? It is an error 

 however that too many commit ; and by thus indul- 

 ging an aversion at a particular study, are in danger 

 of rivetting the principle on tlieir own minds, and of 

 transmitting it to those who may in future be under 

 their inspection ; thus it becomes pernicious to them- 

 selves and posterity. But I am apt to believe, were 

 the clergy carefully to examine and attend to the 

 studies of those under them, and chiefly to inculcate 

 strict perseverance and attention in the pursuit of 

 mathematical learning, especially as that, of all the 

 rest, is least regarded, we would see rising genius ar- 

 rive at greater perfection, and with joy would pre- 

 sage illustrious succefsors ; and would see the chairs 

 of literature filled with those who bid'fair to bring 

 science to maturity. Such an exertion, on the part of 

 the clergy, will not, I hope, be reckoned burdensome r 

 the prospect of good arising from the tafk, will the 

 more excite a benevolent mind to devote time, and 

 study, to that work, which not only promises personal 

 advantage, but general benefit. Much is in the mi- 

 nister's power,— he cannot only recommend the science 

 to their attention, but may promote their progrefs, 

 and can timeously have opportunity of discovering 

 how far they arc instructed in the science, and may, 

 therefore, with precision, be able to decide, whether 

 their knowledge in it is a sufficient preparation for 

 entering on those parts of literature that are thereby 

 illustrated, and contribute his afsistance accordingly. 

 If, through your influence, the clergy would be still 

 more useful in exerting themselves in favour of those 



